Medium Level
Problem Solving & Data Analysis
Develop skills in probability, statistics, and data interpretation for the SAT.
What You'll Learn
Probability
Calculate probabilities for single and compound events.
Statistics
Analyze measures of center and spread including mean, median, and standard deviation.
Scatterplots
Interpret scatterplots and understand correlation and line of best fit.
Data Analysis
Extract insights from tables, charts, and graphs.
Key Concepts
- •Probability Formulas: P(event) = favorable outcomes / total outcomes
- •Mean vs. Median: Understanding when to use each measure of center
- •Correlation: Positive, negative, and no correlation in scatterplots
- •Standard Deviation: Measuring spread and variability in data
- •Two-Way Tables: Analyzing categorical data and conditional probability
Example Problem
A bag contains 5 red marbles, 3 blue marbles, and 2 green marbles. If you randomly select one marble, what is the probability of selecting a red or blue marble?
Solution:
Total marbles = 5 + 3 + 2 = 10
Favorable outcomes (red or blue) = 5 + 3 = 8
P(red or blue) = 8/10 = 4/5 or 0.8
Study Tips
- ✓Always identify the total number of possible outcomes first
- ✓Look for outliers in data sets as they can significantly affect the mean
- ✓When analyzing scatterplots, note the direction and strength of correlation
- ✓Practice reading data from different visual representations (tables, graphs, charts)
Start Practicing
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